Microsoft’s Twitter policy simple, straightforward

If you’re curious about where Microsoft stands on employees’ use of Twitter, take a look at Microsoft’s “Tweeting Guidelines” (PDF).

They’re among social-media policies from more than 80 organizations compiled by Chris Boudreaux, author of the upcoming book “Social Media Governance.” Microsoft’s stands out from many others’ — even other tech organizations’ — for its conversational rather than commanding tone, dearth of legalese and, frankly, implicit trust that employees won’t do anything stupid.

Few specific restrictions are given; employees are reminded instead to “use their judgment” and “to post sensibly and responsibly.” The 10 questions on Microsoft’s Twitter/microblogging FAQ mostly concern whether and when employees can announce their company affiliation and/or speak on behalf of the company. (In a nutshell: only if that’s their part of their job.)

Those seeking further guidance are referred to Microsoft’s more detailed Blogging FAQ (included in the PDF starting on page four), which echoes the theme that employees should “exercise good judgment and ‘be smart’.'” That document does delve into more specific topics, such as releasing confidential information (don’t do it!), talking about competitors (“use good judgment”), and whether posts need to be cleared or edited (no, just “be smart”).